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How to become a permanent PMU artist

Permanent makeup artists are responsible for tattooing eye, eyebrow, lip, and skin pigment to achieve the same appearance of makeup.To become a permanent makeup artist, you need to take courses in bloodborne pathogens to learn how to avoid infections. Some permanent makeup artists go to cosmetology school until completion, while others focus on courses for permanent makeup techniques.


Obtain Bloodborne Pathogen Training

Because PMU artists deal with the use of needles or scalpels for pigmentation on clients, you need to have training to learn how to avoid infections for safety. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires all workers who will be exposed to blood on the job to receive safety training. The training program teaches you the techniques to handle infectious materials safely and covers hand-washing and waste-disposal methods. State licensing boards require workers applying for a license as a permanent makeup artist to complete bloodborne pathogen training. In addition to training, some states mandate permanent makeup artists to must submit two tests for hepatitis and other communicable diseases.


Complete Training or Apprenticeship Program

PMU artists may obtain training through a course or an apprenticeship program. Some states require tattoo artists to complete an apprenticeship program to qualify for licensure, while others consider the completion of a training program sufficient enough. Program length can vary from 3 weeks to at least 6 months. Apprenticeship programs provide the student with practical experience under the supervision of a licensed permanent makeup artist. State licensing boards may require individuals to submit proof of practical experience in addition to the completion of a training course. Proper use of needles is most likely the highest area of focus in permanent makeup. The improper use of needles can cause skin damage, spread infection, and pose a hygiene risk. Because of this, you can plan on spending several hundred hours learning how to use, clean, and store tattoo needles.


Obtain Safety and First Aid Training

It may also be required to complete first aid and safety training, such as CPR, to qualify for a state license. Such classes can be found through universities, community colleges, medical centers, and the American Red Cross. They teach students how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation and prevent and respond to first aid emergencies. This is a must for the safety of the clients.


Apply for State Licensure

Individuals who meet the state requirements for a permanent makeup artist must submit an application to the state licensing board. Candidates for licensure may be required to pass an examination that includes a practical demonstration of skills. The examination also tests the candidate's knowledge of sanitation and safety techniques and the rules and regulations for tattoo artists in the state to ensure safe experiences for clients.


Pursue Certification

The Society of Permanent Cosmetics Professionals administers a voluntary exam for individuals to become a certified permanent cosmetics technician (www.spcp.org). Once at least 1,000 hours of studying permanent cosmetics has been met, and after a bloodborne pathogens standard class has been completed, active members of the permanent cosmetics community can apply to take the Certified Permanent Cosmetic Professional exam.


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